The wait is finally over as hosts Qatar take on Ecuador in the opening game of the World Cup on Sunday, but the all-important opening ceremony must take place first. Qatar takes on Ecuador in the opening game of the 2022 World Cup on Sunday as the hosts aim to get off to the perfect start with all three points.
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However, they must first put on an impressive display with their opening ceremony, which is scheduled to take place before the game. The introductory performance has become a staple part of tournament tradition and now it is Qatar’s turn to welcome the world with open arms and make a positive first impression.
Here is all you need to know about the opening ceremony for the 2022 World Cup, including when it takes place, how you can watch it, and who will be performing.
When is the World Cup opening ceremony?
The opening ceremony for the 2022 World Cup will take place at 2pm (GMT) on Sunday, November 20 at the 60,000-capacity Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor, Qatar.
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The ceremony was originally scheduled to take place on November 21, after two games had already been played, but it was brought forward along with the opening match between Qatar and Ecuador in order to preserve the tradition of the first game featuring the hosts.
How to watch
The opening fixture between Qatar and Ecuador (4 pm GMT) will be televised on BBC One, while the match can also be streamed live on BBC iPlayer and the BBC iPlayer app.
The BBC’s coverage for the game begins at 3 pm (GMT), although they are also expected to show the opening ceremony beforehand as part of the build-up to the fixture.